| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | March 31st, 2025 |
| Fellowship Duration | 2 years (2025-2027) |
| Fields of Study | Economics, Statistics, Agricultural Economics, Environmental Economics, International Economics, Health Economics, Development Economics, Econometrics, etc. |
| Eligibility | Open to all nationalities with a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field |
| Work Locations | Low- and middle-income countries worldwide |
| Employment Type | Local civil servant positions |
| Salary | £32,600 per annum (Year 1), £34,600 per annum (Year 2), inclusive of a housing allowance |
| Application Process | Online application form; no CVs, transcripts, or supporting documents accepted at this stage |
| Required Skills | Public policy interest, work/voluntary experience, language proficiency (English essential, French advantageous), strong IT skills |
| Referees | Two required (contacted if shortlisted for an interview) |
| Official Website | ODI Fellowship Scheme |
Applications are now open for the 2025/2027 Overseas Development Institute (ODI) Fellowship Scheme. Since its establishment in 1963, the ODI Fellowship Scheme has been instrumental in bridging the gap between early-career economists and real-world public sector challenges. The program provides a unique opportunity for young professionals to gain hands-on experience by working as civil servants in low- and middle-income countries.
Fellows are placed in diverse governmental institutions, including ministries of finance and planning, health and education, central banks, statistics offices, and regulatory agencies. This program allows participants to apply their academic knowledge in real-world policymaking and contribute to developmental economic growth.
Fellowship Details
Roles and Responsibilities
ODI Fellows work as public sector civil servants, supporting economic development initiatives across various government institutions. Specific responsibilities may include:
- Economic analysis and policymaking for finance and planning ministries.
- Statistical research and data analysis for national statistics offices.
- Regulatory framework development for central banks and government bodies.
- Sector-specific economic planning in health, education, and environmental ministries.
Each role varies by country and institution, providing a tailored hands-on learning experience for fellows.
Eligibility Criteria
The ODI Fellowship Scheme is open to candidates of all nationalities who meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualifications
- A Master’s or PhD in a relevant field such as:
- Economics
- Statistics
- Agricultural Economics
- Environmental Economics
- International Economics
- Health Economics
- Development Economics
- Econometrics
- Those currently pursuing a postgraduate degree can apply, but selection is conditional upon degree completion.
Skills and Experience
Candidates are expected to demonstrate:
- A strong interest in public policy and economic development.
- Relevant work or voluntary experience in development economics or public service.
- Proficiency in English (French is advantageous).
- Strong IT and data analysis skills.
Benefits and Compensation
Fellows receive a competitive salary and additional benefits:
- Year 1 Salary: £32,600 (net of tax)
- Year 2 Salary: £34,600 (net of tax)
- Housing Allowance: Adjusted based on the local cost of living
Beyond monetary compensation, the ODI Fellowship offers:
- A unique career-building opportunity in international development.
- Practical exposure to policymaking in government institutions.
- Professional growth and networking within the global economic development sector.
Application Process
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete an online application form before the deadline. Applications are assessed based solely on the form, and supporting materials such as CVs and transcripts are not accepted.
Selection Process
- Initial Application Review: Candidates are shortlisted based on qualifications, skills, and motivation.
- Interview Stage: Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview.
- Reference Check: Two referees must be provided, but they will only be contacted if the applicant reaches the interview stage.
- Final Selection and Placement: Successful candidates receive placement offers based on country needs and expertise.
Application Deadline: March 31st, 2025
Why Apply for the ODI Fellowship?
The ODI Fellowship Scheme provides a rare opportunity to gain international experience while making a tangible impact in public sector economic development. Key reasons to apply include:
- Professional Growth: Work directly with government agencies, gaining hands-on policymaking experience.
- International Exposure: Engage with diverse cultures and economies.
- Meaningful Impact: Contribute to the economic and statistical development of low- and middle-income countries.
- Competitive Compensation: Receive a salary package with housing allowances.
If you are passionate about economics, policymaking, and global development, this fellowship is a stepping stone toward a fulfilling career in international public service.
For More Information
For full details, eligibility requirements, and application instructions, visit the Official Webpage of the ODI Fellowship Scheme: ODI Fellowship Scheme.
